Im trying to remove my fan clutch so I can replace it due to some over heating issues I recently started to experience. I have a new 4 core copper/brass radiator, new thermostat 180F, new lower radiator hose and new thermostat bypass hose. So the only thing left that I haven't replaced is the fan clutch. I almost got the old one removed but the last bolt on the water pump pulley doesn't want to come out. It just rotates the pulley. Any suggestion would be greatly appreciated.

1970 Olds Cutlass Supreme w/350


Thanks,

 

Well I would try to leave the others somewhat tight just finger tight and try to get some leverage or pry bar to be able to hold it in place while you try to loosen it.

 

Where do you think a good spot would be for the pry bar??


Thanks,

 

I would try to do it on the other bolts if you could get it angled right or maybe try some vise grips on the clutch fan itself if You have something that could grab it.or use a end wrench on one of the other bolts while you use one on the one that's not being so easy. Did you use any wd40 or anything to help as well?

 

I use two wrenches. Put the second one box end over one the exposed bolt and rotate the fan until the side of it rests on an adjoining one. Then you have the leverage you need to keep the pulley from spinning while you loosen the last bolt with the first wrench. Been doing it that way for years.

 

I leave all the fan belts on to get all the nuts to turn, THEN loosen the fan belts to get the nuts off.

- Eric

 

Thats what i do most of the time. And you can put extra pressure pushing down on the belts to hold it. Or use 2 wrenches.

 

So I managed to get the fan clutch off. Thanks for all the suggestions. Now on to the next issue. Since I have gone this far should I replace the water pump while im at it. About a week ago my olds was leaking from the thermostat housing and had a small weep hole leak from the water pump. After replacing the thermostat gasket, the water pump stopped leaking as well.

check out the pics of the leaking prior to replacing the thermostat housing gasket.

Thanks again.